Finding riches in a third world country.
Guatemala is referred to as a dangerous, overpopulated, poverty stricken country whose history is dotted with civil war and an unstable government. “The World Bank 2010 data for Guatemala indicates that the Gross National Income (GNI) Per Capita for Guatemala is $2,740 and for the Lower Middle class the average annual income is $1,619 in US dollars.” (ref.) “With an estimated 59 percent of its population living in poverty, Guatemala is one of the world's most unequal countries.” (ref.)
However, Guatemala is one of the most beautiful countries I have ever been to. Their colors, textures and scenery are just as vibrant and interesting as the people.
For an "impoverished" country, there seems to be a lot of richness.
We learn about humanity when visiting fellow citizens of the world whom may not know such luxury.
Few amenities in the many shack-type houses built on top of each other.
This is where the community does laundry. Water is on for only a few hours per day.
This is a bath. A small fire is lit in this stone enclosure and a steam bath ensues.
Seeing the beauty.
We were welcomed into a home. The young man and his little son served us hot chocolate and stories. The young woman and little girl were cuddled up in their bed, which they shared with the dad and brother, in a room with three walls, a tin roof and nothing more than a bed.
There were very few comfort items in the house; very few items at all, but the family seemed so content.
Like the other homes and families that I saw, there was music playing, food cooking and a warm feeling of community.
The volcanoes were awe-inspiring, breath taking monuments.
Color and craft are abundant.
…creating
…carving
…corn
I candidly asked a local resident why men leave their families to go to the USA illegally to work for next to nothing?
And in response he said, “most of the time we go to get enough money to buy a water filter for our house, one that makes the drinking water safe, and then we return home.”
About 50% of the population is Roman Catholic and faith seems to be deep rooted in the culture.
Mayan Alter, Chicabal
San Andres Xecul
Vanushka
"Thank you everyone." If you want to help, just to be nice, a dollar or two will suffice. Guatemala is a country full of beauty and pride and your donation will help for those who reside. Nueva Generación is a non-profit 501(c)(3) registered organization that works to promote education for children in Guatemala. Click on photo to be linked to their website.